Khristopher Johns

On July 28, 2005, Marina Del Rey will bid farewell and good luck to Lt. Khristopher Johns and welcome to Lt. (Junior Grade) Nathan Swardson during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Halibut mooring in Marina Del Rey. The change of command ceremony is a formal ritual conducted before the entire ship’s company. It restates to the ship’s company that the continuity of authority and command will be maintained. At 10 a.m., Johns will transfer total responsibility, authority and accountability to Swardson, both of whom are graduates of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn.

Johns, who recently was promoted to lieutenant, has been the Halibut’s commanding officer since June 13, 2003. Since assuming command, he has lead the Halibut through numerous search and rescue, law enforcement and homeland security missions. His new assignment will be as District 13 law enforcement officer and patrol boat manager enforcement officer at USCG District 13 in Seattle. Johns, who is originally from Craig, joined the Coast Guard on July 7, 1997. Before serving as the Halibut’s commanding officer Johns was assigned to USCGC Sherman. Johns is a Coast Guard Achievement Medal recipient.